Artist Statement
Primarily a hand-builder, using only my fingers, simple tools, and creativity, I mold and shape clay into adorable and functional pieces. I consistently lose track of time as I find it incredibly therapeutic to work with clay. Even though this process takes me longer, I prefer to go slow and focus on every section of a piece. All my pieces are made out of stoneware as I find I have more control over the clay. I primarily mix underglazes with Mayco glazes as I find it a combination that translates my ideas well. My theme currently has been inspired by a mushroom foraging walk I took through Stanley Park. I wanted to create whimsical ceramic figurines that activate the imagination, remind you of nature and make people smile.
Biography
Vicki J Leclerc is a local-born ceramic artist residing in Maple Ridge. Living with the vast surrounding nature has impacted her style and motivates her to create. With a great love of the outdoors, gardening and animals, these subjects primarily influence her art. She always had a general interest in art and taking different styles of classes, however it was through volunteering in 2017 at the ACT Arts Center as a gallery shop attendant and hosting numerous live art performances that her passion for art grew exponentially. At the same time, volunteering in Pitt Meadows, overseeing the Art Gallery Exhibitions sales and speaking with participating artists. She took her first ceramics class in 2018, falling in love with the artform and continuing to take pottery classes till 2022. Since then, she has continued to create ceramics from home while constantly being inspired by spending time with other potters and visiting art markets.
Instagram: @vickijleclerc